The performance shows the "broad-based strategy we've been following is paying dividends," particularly Tesco's International business, which booked a 27% jump in first-half sales, Leahy told Dow Jones Newswires in a telephone interview.

"There was good growth across the board, China was particularly pleasing, of course there's an economic boom there and we're able to participate in that.

"But all of the countries chipped in with solid performances, of course they've been expanding, the network of stores have been expanding," he said.

Leahy said Tesco's 4% rise in second-quarter U.K. comparable sales, excluding fuel is "a solid performance", noting it worked hard to offer "good value to customers", who are looking to save money.

Tesco is also gaining market share within its Non-Food operations from all parts of the market.

Turning to the group's U.S. operations, which have been operating for less than a year, Leahy said he was "very happy, delighted" with its performance, noting sales are growing "strongly."

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